The dry cracked earth and sand was all that Sydelle knew since she was 7 years old. Her town had been plagued by drought for many years until the day when a mysteriously handsome stranger comes into her town bringing forth the rain.

Sydelle's father is so grateful for the relief that he promises Wayland North anything. To Sydelle's dismay North demands her in return and her family willingly obliges. Yet she cannot protest much for North has an important mission and has to move swiftly. What happens next is an adventure like no other.

As this wondrous story moves along in quick progression the plot still feels natural. The pacing swift without any bumps and as magical and mysterious as North appears to be. Not to say this tenuous couple don't find their share of elemental troubles like earthquakes and storms along the way besides the fact that an evil wizard is hunting them down. While North continues to be silent, Sydelle takes charge on seeks her own answers to all the mystery that surrounds him. Sydelle is a force to be recognized and it is a refreshing bit to this engaging tale.

What is truly amazing about this story, however, is the relationship that develops between Sydelle and North. Its development is subtle, simmering beneath the surface. Hints of it are always tugging just at the edges of the story, but without ever fully overriding the plot and it will leave you clamouring for more.

Alexandra Bracken did an amazing job with her debut novel and I cannot speak of its praises enough. A different take on mysterious wizardry with a dusting of romance and a protagonist that is spirited as she is different. If you are a fan of Kristin Cashore and Tamora Pierce than this a gem of a read that will take you to far away lands and adventure

Hello! I am the Ravenous Reader and I love to read and find my happiness in devouring as many YA novels as I possibly can. When I am not reading then you can find me chatting up books with my blogging buddy and bookish friends to the point of distraction. I am also extremely fortunate to live in an area that has a plethora or YA events that I love chronicling on my Instagram account.